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would i need experience for any job

#first-job

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Keisha’s Answer

While experience is helpful, the desire to learn new things and work hard is more important. 

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James’s Answer

Everyone starts their first job somewhere, so no - you definitely don't always need "experience" before being able to find a first job!

That said, if you don't have formal prior job experience start to think about anything you've done in your life that might count as experience. This could be anything from an internship you've done in the past, a project you've completed, a volunteer activity that is relevant to the work you'll do in the job, a course or class you've taken that is relevant to the type of skillset the job is looking for.
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sherri’s Answer

I have had many positions that I was hired for that I had no prior experience.  You need to be ready to step in and learn as much as you can. 

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Richard’s Answer

Typically with your first job, your attitude will be really important and your willingness to learn.

This will typically be something you would need to show as part of the interviewing process. You may also be able to use other experience that you may not realise you have; such as being able to reflect on charity, school clubs, extra-curricular activities in your past.

My first job was without experience, and it was my attitude that helped.

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David’s Answer

Hi Marvin,

No experience is not a requirement for many of the first jobs you could apply for. I would say that the most important quality you will need is drive, determination and a willingness to learn on your first job. Taking on the responsibility of a first job is a great experience, it will teach you a lot about the job you are doing, and it will teach you about your ability to be successful through hard work. Not all jobs are the same, but taking them seriously building up your courage to do your job and do it well is very rewarding.

Good luck!!
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Francisco J.’s Answer

Some experience is needed, but it depends on the job. Jobs are looking for many skills and strengths but if you determine the top skills or qualifications the job is looking for then you can reflect on what skills and strengths can you bring to the table. Rather than thinking about experience, it helps to think I can bring "XYZ" skills. You got this! Go out and share what makes you, YOU!

Francisco J. recommends the following next steps:

Research jobs and what qualifications and keywords they mention that you need
Make a chart, list the skills and/or qualifications in one column, then when and where you met that skill in the 2nd. In the 3rd column you write down an example or situation where you met that skill.
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Gregg’s Answer

For a first job, general experience can replace "job experience". For example:
-if you are looking for a job with children, taking care of younger siblings shows you have the capability.
-if you are looking for a job in retail, showing you have a grasp of what the store sells is important.
-if you are looking for a job in sales, showing you can have a conversation and are comfortable asking for things is key.

Basically if you think you can do it on your past experiences, don't worry about whether you have the job experience. Go for it and be confident. It won't always work out but even the experience of not getting a job will help you in the future. We've all been there with no experience and all made it to the other side.

Good luck!

Gregg
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David’s Answer

Hi Marvin,
Do I need experience for any job?
Not necessarily, it really depends on the hiring person. I have been on job interviews where the hiring manager liked my enthusiasm and I got the job over people that had more experience then I did. With no experience YOU are going to have to convince the hiring manager to take a chance on you and give you a shot. Never go into an interview with doubts, they will see that and probably not offer you the position. Instead, always go into an interview with confidence. Prove to them in the interview that you can do the job regardless of your experience.
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Samantha’s Answer

Hello,

So depending on the job will depend if you need previous experience. Since this sounds like a first job I am going to say no. Entry level jobs like the "first time jobs" we all think about usually don't expect you to have previous experience working, especially if you are just working age. I know that a lot of employers will look for someone who is hard-working and dedicated to the job. Some companies and hiring managers are known to ask some "experience" questions. Those are more like the "name an experience when...." "tell me a time when...." etc, but these don't have to be specifically from jobs. They can be experiences from sports, extracurriculars, school or just living life in general. Hope this helps and good luck!
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Kevin’s Answer

In most entry-level positions no experience is needed. If you are a hard-worker, willing to try new things, and are positive you will be just fine in your new position. One thing that I learned early on when I first started working is "taking the initiative". What I mean is that you perform your duties and responsibilities first or without being asked to do so. This will show the employer that you really care about your job and are willing to learn more.
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Blake’s Answer

Hey Marvin,

I think that it depends on the job. A lot of jobs will teach you what you need to know to complete your tasks. However, always try to be punctual and have a good attitude. Regardless of what the job is, it will always help!

Thanks,
Blake
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Simeon’s Answer

For the more career-oriented jobs, you'll need some prior experience (often this will come in the form of an internship). You are less likely to need previous experience for a trade job such as welding, plumbing, electrician, or HVAC. Also, you are less likely to need previous experience if you look for work at smaller companies. Smaller companies have the added benefit of having an increased chance of moving up the ladder and getting experience in the next tier up the ladder for future job applications.
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Gloria’s Answer

Hi Marvin,

There are some jobs that do not expect you to have any experience. Your challenge will be actually wanting to do the job. You need to focus on the fact that any job can be a first good job. It is not something that you have to do forever and you will get a lot out of it. If you are worried about having experience, try volunteering with a local charity. Then you can gain some experience at some skills while not having to do it for a long time. You should be flexible and take any opportunity to work as a way to learn new things.

Gloria
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